Characidium pellucidum
Characidium pellucidum
Characidium pellucidum is a tiny, translucent freshwater darter found in clear, fast‑flowing streams of South America. At only about 3.4 cm it is prized by scientists rather than anglers, but it offers a fun challenge for ultra‑light tackle enthusiasts.
Basic Information
Family
Crenuchidae
Max Size
3.4 cm
Habitat
freshwater
Climate
tropical
Best Season
Spring and early summer when water temperatures rise
Best Time
Early morning or late afternoon
Distribution
No distribution map available
Fishing Tips for Characidium pellucidum
- Use a ultralight 2‑3 ft spin rod with a 2‑4 lb test line
- Employ micro‑jigs or tiny soft‑plastic grubs as lures
- Target shallow riffles and drop‑offs where the fish hold and present a slow, subtle retrieve
- Work with a very small hook (size 12‑14) and a light split‑shot to keep the bait near the bottom
Top Fishing Locations for Characidium pellucidum
Rio Negro
BrazilClear blackwater stretch of the Rio Negro known for abundant Characidium pellucidum in its sandy riffles.
Best: June-September
Upper Orinoco Tributary
VenezuelaRemote headwaters of the Orinoco where the species thrives among leaf litter and gravel substrates.
Best: March-May
Lake Maracaibo Tributary
VenezuelaShallow, warm tributary feeding Lake Maracaibo; ideal habitat during the rainy season.
Best: July-October
Rio Ucayali (Upper Amazon)
PeruFast‑flowing sections of the Ucayali with rocky beds where the darters are plentiful.
Best: November-February
Rio Xingu Protected Area
BrazilRemote stretch of the Xingu River within a conservation zone; requires logistical planning but yields great catches.
Best: December-February
Rio Paraguay (Pantanal)
ArgentinaLower Paraguay channels in the Pantanal floodplain, offering abundant food sources for the species.
Best: October-December
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Characidium pellucidum
Recommended Equipment
Best bait: Live micro‑worms or insect larvae, or "N/A" if using lures